Conte sends message to Chelsea fans about Belgian attacker

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has sent a message to the Blues fans about Belgian attacker Michy Batshuayi.

Conte is delighted with Michy Batshuayi’s character, work rate and commitment in the build -up to Chelsea’s season.

Batshuayi is hoping to force his way into Chelsea team this season after struggling to hold down a regular spot in the starting XI last season.

The Belgian forward only started one League game last season for the Blues after joining from Marseille in the summer of 2016, but he was able to make few appearances from the bench and he scored the important goal that helped Chelsea clinched the Premier League title at West Brom back in May.

With Diego Costa’s future up in the air, and Alvaro Morata set for his first season in the Premier League, Batshuayi could have an opportunity to hold down a regular spot in the first team this term.

And Conte has told Chelsea fans that he’s been extremely impressed by the Belgian’s attitude in recent weeks.

Conte said: “Michy is working very well, he is putting 120 per cent in every moment during the training session and during the game.

“We are talking about a young player. He needs to develop, but for sure he is trying to put his best in every moment of the day.

“We worked very hard with him last season. He didn’t play a lot but I think he adapted himself to our style of football. He has a lot of space to improve, he is a young player and he needs to continue to work and to improve.”

Chelsea was beaten 3-2 by Burnley in their Premier League opener on Saturday.

The Blues are preparing for a return to the Champions League this season after their title triumph last term.